Excitement surged through the crowd as racers showed their cars and motorbikes off, leaving many spectators in awe at the Saldanha Drags over the weekend.
It took place on Saturday 6 September at the Saldanha Airfield.
With about 8 000 people attending, gates had to open at 05:00 as cars queued all the way down the road towards the railway line.
Lawton van Oordt, from West Coast Racing, said once the gates opened, the line of cars flowed easily for seven hours before reaching capacity for vehicles on site.
The parade lap, which is loved by spectators, was led by father and son duo Grant and Kyle Steenveld in their Golf 7 and 8R.
Racing started at 10:00, and the day’s racing progressed without incidents, Van Oordt said. “We, as West Coast Racing, deem it crucial to do all we can to provide this platform for racing.
“Over the past two decades, we were able to plough funds of more than R1,5m into the community by doing various projects, feeding schemes and donations to charities and individuals. With funds raised this year we are looking to do something special.”
Van Oordt, on behalf of the organisers of the Saldanha Drags, said it would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the Saldanha Bay Municipality and everyone else who attended and supported the event over the weekend.
“A special word of appreciation goes to Vivienne Jones for her dedication and efforts in preparing the venue, the Fire Department and Charles Barends of Law Enforcement for his valued support. We are also truly grateful to Mayor André Truter for warmly welcoming the spectators and blessing the event with a prayer, setting the perfect tone for a safe and successful day.
“This event was made possible by the dedication of a committed West Coast Racing team and the unwavering support from our sponsors, Maistry Motor Sport, Coastal Parts, West Coast Oil Distributors and CPI West Coast. Together, we created a safe and exciting motorsport experience, and a gathering that brought people together in the true spirit of the West Coast.
“To all participants, spectators and supporters: Your presence and enthusiasm made the event the success it was.
“We look forward to building on this momentum and making the Saldanha Drags an even greater highlight for our community in the future.”
